Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says until the listeriosis outbreak has completely been contained, a zero-tolerance approach is being adopted towards ready-to-eat meat products.

In a written reply to a parliamentary question, the Health Minister says several departments and regulators are currently reviewing the existing food control system.

Motsoaledi says he wants them to recommend the best way to regulate food safety in the country.

A review of the National Health Act and the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act is underway to include reporting requirements for food testing.

Motsoaledi says the new guidelines will cover all food categories that are considered as ready to eat.

He says health professionals need to consider whether a zero-tolerance approach needs to be adopted towards the listeria bacteria, in light of new scientific research on its virulence and the current health status of the South African population.

Motsoaledi says once the review has been finalised, the proposed guidelines will be published for extensive consultation and comment.